Best Paying Esthetician Jobs

The field of esthetics has expanded significantly in recent years, thanks in part to a growing focus on wellness and self-care. Estheticians play a crucial role in this industry, offering services and expertise that enhance clients’ appearance and well-being. From traditional spa roles to more specialized positions, the range of opportunities for skilled estheticians is broader than ever. Here, we explore ten of the best-paying jobs in the esthetics field, outlining their roles, responsibilities, and the education required to excel in these positions.

Medical Esthetician

• Average Salary: $45,000 – $60,000 annually
• Job Description: Medical estheticians work in medical settings, providing skin care treatments to patients with various skin conditions.
• Responsibilities: Performing skin care treatments, assisting with pre- and post-operative skin care, and advising on skin health.
• Required Education: State esthetician license; additional training or certification in medical esthetics may be required.

Spa Director

• Average Salary: $60,000 – $80,000 annually
• Job Description: Spa directors manage the operations of a spa, ensuring high-quality services and a positive experience for clients.
• Responsibilities: Overseeing staff, managing budgets, and developing spa services and programs.
• Required Education: Esthetician license; experience in spa management and a background in business administration are beneficial.

Esthetician Educator

• Average Salary: $50,000 – $70,000 annually
• Job Description: Esthetician educators teach aspiring estheticians in beauty schools or institutions.
• Responsibilities: Developing curriculum, teaching esthetic techniques, and preparing students for state licensing exams.
• Required Education: Esthetician license; teaching certification or credentials may be required.

Laser Technician Esthetician

• Average Salary: $45,000 – $65,000 annually
• Job Description: Laser technician estheticians specialize in laser treatments for hair removal, skin resurfacing, and other cosmetic procedures.
• Responsibilities: Conducting laser treatments, ensuring client safety, and maintaining laser equipment.
• Required Education: Esthetician license; specialized training and certification in laser technology.

Skincare Product Developer

• Average Salary: $55,000 – $75,000 annually
• Job Description: Skincare product developers create new skincare products, from concept to production.
• Responsibilities: Researching ingredients, formulating products, and testing product efficacy and safety.
• Required Education: Esthetician license; a degree in chemistry or cosmetic science is advantageous.

Esthetician Sales Representative

• Average Salary: $45,000 – $65,000 annually (including commission)
• Job Description: Esthetician sales representatives sell skincare products and equipment to salons, spas, and professional estheticians.
• Responsibilities: Building client relationships, demonstrating products, and meeting sales targets.
• Required Education: Esthetician license; sales or marketing experience is beneficial.

Cruise Ship Esthetician

• Average Salary: $35,000 – $50,000 annually (plus tips)
• Job Description: Cruise ship estheticians provide a range of esthetic services to guests aboard luxury cruise liners.
• Responsibilities: Performing facials, body treatments, and other esthetic services; promoting spa products and services.
• Required Education: Esthetician license; additional training in hospitality or customer service is beneficial.

Waxing Specialist

• Average Salary: $30,000 – $45,000 annually (plus tips)
• Job Description: Waxing specialists focus on hair removal services using various waxing techniques.
• Responsibilities: Performing waxing treatments, maintaining hygiene standards, and advising clients on aftercare.
• Required Education: Esthetician license; specialized training in waxing techniques.

Makeup Artist Esthetician

• Average Salary: $30,000 – $50,000 annually (plus project-based earnings)
• Job Description: Makeup artist estheticians apply makeup for events, photoshoots, or entertainment industry projects.
• Responsibilities: Consulting with clients, applying makeup, and creating specific looks based on client needs.
• Required Education: Esthetician license; specialized training or courses in makeup artistry.

Esthetician Business Owner

• Average Salary: Varies widely based on business size and location
• Job Description: Esthetician business owners operate their own skincare clinics, spas, or salons, offering a variety of esthetic services.
• Responsibilities: Managing business operations, providing esthetic services, and developing business strategies.
• Required Education: Esthetician license; business management skills are crucial.

Final Thoughts

The esthetics industry offers a diverse array of career paths that cater to different interests and skills within the field of skincare and beauty. These high-paying roles not only offer financial rewards but also the satisfaction of improving clients’ well-being and confidence. For estheticians looking to advance their careers, specialized training, continuous education, and a passion for the industry are key to unlocking these lucrative opportunities.

Other Jobs in Diverse and Miscellaneous Opportunities

• Best Paying Jobs in Miscellaneous
• Best Paying Jobs in Other Consumer Services
• Best Paying Jobs in Precious Metals
• Best Paying Remote Jobs
• Best Paying Jobs in Packaged Foods
• Best Paying Jobs in Clothing/Shoe/Accessory Stores
• Best Paying Jobs in Beverages Production/Distribution
• Best Paying Jobs in Hotels/Resorts
• Best Paying Jobs in Other Specialty Stores
• Best Paying Jobs in Diversified Commercial Services
• Best Paying Call Center Jobs
• Best Paying Cashier Jobs
• Best Paying Chef Jobs
• Best Paying Cosmetology Jobs
• Best Paying Fashion Jobs
• Best Paying Food Service Jobs
• Best Paying Hospitality Jobs
• Best Paying Hotel Jobs
• See All High-Paying Career Opportunities By Industry

Sources

For the most current and detailed information on esthetician jobs and their salaries, you can refer to the following resources:

• Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP): https://www.ascpskincare.com/
• Indeed: https://www.indeed.com/
• Glassdoor: https://www.glassdoor.com/index.htm
• Payscale: https://www.payscale.com/

Frank Gogol

I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.

See author's posts